Italian President Sergio Mattarella (left) shaking hands with President Nana Akufo-Addo

President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo is soliciting the support of the Italian government to help in the fight against terrorism and piracy in Africa.

According to him, such support would help make Africa a better place.

Speaking at a meeting with the visiting Italian President, Sergio Mattarella at the Jubilee House, President Akufo-Addo said an end to terrorism and piracy is key to maintaining peace and security in Africa.

“I express Ghana’s appreciation for Italy’s assistance in the fight against piracy, we have also decided to promote democracy together in West Africa and firmly reiterate our mutual rejection of an unconstitutional change of government.”

The president also invited Italian and European businesses to the continent, highlighting the potential labour force and investment opportunities.

“Towards strengthening intra-African trade, Ghana called on Italy to lend their support to the African Continental Free Trade Area whose secretariat is located in Accra.

“The AfCFTA intends to link 54 markets, covering 1.3 billion with a combined GDP of $3.5 trillion. By 2025, it will cover an estimated 2.5 billion, with over a quarter of the world’s working population. The investment and business opportunities offered to Italian and European businesses are enormous.”